Holmes Hall — Restaurant in Melbourne

On a Sunday, Holmes Hall has probably the best vibe. Think of one that's easy, slow going, and not in a rush for anything. Even though it's a casual atmosphere, the bar staff are onto it and attentive. You won't find either surly or sour service here, instead all of the staff are gregarious and accommodating.

They have a large event space out back, and you'll notice I'm using the word event, as opposed to the dreadfully daggy and somewhat outdated term ""function. "" The word choice never made sense to me, but we'll move on.

A superb range of tap beers, though I would strongly suggest making the menus for them a little bit more accessible, and maybe even posted at the bar, it can be challenging to read the current tap menu, and decipher the tap beer badges from a distance.

On Sunday the 13th, the date of my visit, we were in the midst of several October birthday celebrations, even in fact, it seems the manager on for the day, who was more like a family friend; seeing to all the customers, and most importantly, bringing out the food. The range of cocktails looks bloody brilliant too, though I did not take the opportunity to try any.

Came for the poutine and friends, stayed for the beers, and casa amigos tequila with soda. That's definitely a top recommendation. Well kept, clean venue, with a warm and inviting space. Kudos to all the staff involved for keeping this house, hall shall we say, in excellent order. Just...

Walked into this place yesterday with high hopes as my wife had previously been in with friends and said it was nice!

We have recently had a baby so we brought her along with the idea that we would be welcomed! Unfortunately that was not at all the case…

Upon arrival we could barely squeeze the pram past the dancing customers around the games table who didn’t even flinch when we said excuse me. The staff did not greet us or even acknowledge us at all as we wandered around trying to find a spot for lunch. It was a really strange atmosphere as it felt like a function was going on across multiple parts of the venue but no signage to say so.

We stood around looking a bit lost for 5 or so mins with staff members chatting to each other behind the bar and still no one coming to help us or even looking over to maybe see that we need a hand!

The music was ridiculously loud and as someone who works in hospitality full time I found the staff and the ambience of the venue was pretty woefully managed.

After being ignored we decided to leave and go to Carosello which ended up being the best decision as their staff are super attentive and have great customer service. It’s just a shame that Holmes Hall doesnt seem to care enough to make people stay in their venue long enough to try their food or drinks.

Don’t recommend especially...

@holmeshallbar 📍Moonee Ponds

🍆 Eggplant Parma 🐓 Chicken Parma

Holmes Hall is a friendly, neighbourhood eatery located in the heart of Moonee Ponds. What was once an old supermarket, has been reimagined into a 300 seat restaurant and bar.

The menu serves up homely, hearty classics made with quality produce. They have a pretty extensive list of craft beers, cocktails and wines to choose from. 🍻

We visited on a Wednesday night and we were excited to find out not only was it $20 Parma Night, but also Trivia Night! This is free to join and hosted by Funky Bunch Trivia, super fun, free to play and you can win a bunch of prizes! 🏆

They had both Chicken and Eggplant Parmas available so we grabbed one of each. The Eggplant was a little too soggy and wet however the Chicken was great - we will be back when we have our next craving! The chips are delicious and the side salad served well. 👍🏽

With so many different spaces, this is the perfect spot for any occasion. Great for groups as you can order and pay via QR code or at the bar. Staff are super friendly and accomodating.

There are plenty of TVs for sports, a private function room and an outdoor courtyard. They also run other events such as Drag Bingo on Thursdays with $10 Gnocchi Specials. Check their website or socials...